Research indicates that 20% of employers anticipate a rise in the need for menopause support.
- An estimated six million UK employees are experiencing menopause, affecting their work performance.
- Educating employees about menopause can foster a supportive workplace environment.
- Access to specialized menopause support services is expanding, enhancing employee benefits programs.
- Offering menopause support can increase productivity, reduce absenteeism, and retain experienced staff.
According to recent research, one in five employers is expecting a heightened demand for menopause-related support. With World Menopause Day approaching, the attention towards workplace provisions for menopausal women is increasing. The number of individuals facing menopause in the workplace is significant, with six million employees in the UK reportedly affected by symptoms like anxiety and sleep disturbances, which can undermine both physical and mental health.
The impact of menopause on an individual’s career can be profound. Debra Clark, a leader in wellbeing at Towergate Employee Benefits, states, “The people affected by menopause are often at the pinnacle of their career. They have a wealth of experience and knowledge and are just too valuable to the working world to lose because of the lack of workplace support.” Businesses are encouraged to develop appropriate support systems to retain this invaluable demographic.
Clark suggests that education is a crucial first step. By raising awareness and understanding of menopause symptoms and challenges, employers can create a more empathetic and informed workplace. This knowledge is essential not only for those experiencing menopause but also for their colleagues, fostering a culture of support and inclusivity.
The availability of menopause support services is on the rise, with specialists providing targeted assistance. This growing sector of employee benefits is being incorporated by many mainstream health insurers and advisory services. Clark highlights the importance of staying updated with the latest developments in menopause support to ensure suitable options are available for organizations.
Providing menopause support can be a strategic move for business advancement. It boosts workplace productivity, decreases absenteeism, and retains essential talent, aligning with broader social and legal trends advocating for gender-specific health support in professional environments. The Equality and Human Rights Commission also underscores the value of such initiatives.
To meet the demand for support, comprehensive programs like Menopause+ have been launched. These offer resources such as training, webinars, and coaching sessions aimed at educating both employees and employers. Specialist services extend to policy-making and legal advice, enhancing the overall ability of organizations to support their staff effectively.
Employers are urged to proactively address menopause support in the workplace to maintain a healthy, inclusive, and productive environment.
